Guests of the house share their favorite things.
Kelly Meade
Kelly Meade is an analyst who lives and works in Old Town Alexandria. She loves to share a good meal with friends and family.
When you go to Marcel’s, what resonates with you from your time spent in Brussels? My parents always encouraged us to try new foods and appreciate local, fresh ingredients. In Belgium, they shopped every day
for the evening meal. When I walk into Marcel’s, Chef Wiedmaier’s cuisine brings me back to those years and all the great memories.
What is your favorite dish at Marcel’s? The rack of lamb. I also love the Dover sole and the lobster bisque. And your favorite table? Table 28 for special occasions, otherwise I love to sit in the corner at the far end of the bar for a view of all the activity.
Favorite beverage? Rosé Champagne
What do you enjoy most about Marcel’s? The ambiance when you walk in the door. While Marcel’s is very much a fine dining experience, there is something uniquely warm and cozy about both the food and the restaurant. I feel as though I am being welcomed into a home.
What memory at Marcel’s stands out to you in terms of the food or service? I have celebrated my last 13 birthdays at Marcel’s. I also regularly bring friends and family there to celebrate an event or holiday, so my specific memory is a collective one of all those times when the food, the service, and the personal touches made me feel special.
What would you suggest from the menu to a first-time Marcel’s diner? In addition to my favorites listed above, I would recommend the boudin blanc, tartare of filet mignon, any fish dish, and the foie gras!
Jim Courtovich
Jim Courtovich is founder and managing partner of Sphere Consulting, a public affairs company with offices in London, D.C., and Buenos Aires. He lives in Woodland-Normanstone Terrace in D.C.
How long have you been dining at Marcel’s? Twelve years. I go there for both business and pleasure, from a night grabbing a bite at the bar to a full dinner.
What is your favorite dish at the restaurant? There are too many to pick from, but the lobster bisque and rack of lamb are always favorites.
And your favorite table? The one in the circular room.
Do you have a beverage of choice? Whatever bottle of wine Moez brings out.
What do you enjoy most about Chef Wiedmaier’s food? It is always excellent, and the sauces are
fantastic. I have clients from all over the world who have eaten at many of the best restaurants, and when they come to town they always want to go to Marcel’s—not only because of the food but for the entire experience.
Why do you keep coming back? Marcel’s is consistently great and the service is friendly and professional. I have had so many great meals there with friends and associates. I look at Marcel’s as an extension of my own dining room. I am that comfortable there!
Fred Ritts
Fred Ritts is an attorney at Brickfield Burchette Ritts & Stone, PC, with a specialty in energy. He enjoys golf, dining at Marcel’s, working out, attending the Kennedy Center Ballet, and winning legal battles. He lives in McLean, Virginia.
How long have you been dining at Marcel’s? Ten years. I go there before the Kennedy Center Ballet and on special occasions.
What keeps you coming back? The outstanding service, the pleasant decor, the excellent wine list, and the great menu.
What is your favorite dish at Marcel’s? There are too many to choose from!
And your favorite table? A table by the window, where I always sit!
Do you have a favorite beverage? Turley wine.
What would you suggest from the menu to a first-time Marcel’s diner? Definitely the fish special of the day.
Bob and Sandy Cohn
Bob and Sandy Cohn have homes in McLean and Annapolis. A lawyer, Bob is an avid fisherman, much like Chef Wiedmaier. A retired college instructor, Sandy loves to travel with her husband and try new foods and wines.
How long have you been dining at Marcel’s? Since its inception. When we attended the 10-year anniversary dinner, I framed the menu!
Have you celebrated any special occasions together at Marcel’s? So many birthdays and anniversaries, I can’t even keep track of them all! Bob takes all of his business clients to dine there.
Do you have a favorite table? The one at the wall that separates the dining room from the kitchen, but any table is fine, preferably with Jonathan as the waiter.
What is your favorite dish at Marcel’s? Too many to list, but here goes: the perfect scallops, bison, unbelievable roast chicken, always fresh vegetables in unusual preparations, and any kind of fish—cooked or raw.
Do you have a favorite bottle of wine? Moez and Jonathan are always introducing us to new and fantastic wines. We have had some remarkable white Burgundies, many stupendous reds, and Chambolle-Musigny, among many others.
What do you enjoy most about Chef Wiedmaier’s food? It’s so fresh and perfectly prepared.
What keeps you coming back? Marcel’s offers both excellent food and professional service. They want
you to enjoy every aspect of your dining experience.
Greg and Linda Laughlin
Greg and Linda Laughlin both have political backgrounds. Greg is a lawyer and former member of Congress, and Linda is an Army Arlington Lady and former president of the Former Members of Congress Auxiliary.
How long have you been dining at Marcel’s? Since it first opened. You will find us there every Friday evening, if we are in town.
Have you celebrated any special occasions together at Marcel’s? Most anniversaries, birthdays, and special occasions, and with our children and friends too.
Do you have a favorite table? Number 15
What are your favorite dishes at Marcel’s? The lobster bisque, Dover sole, all amuse-bouches, the foie gras, Chimay, and the Grand Marnier Mousse.
Favorite beverage? The Kir Royale and Champagnes for me; red wines selected by Moez for Greg.
What do you enjoy most about Chef Wiedmaier’s food? The flavor layers, the exquisite presentation, the freshness, and the perfection that begins with Robert and extends through every member of his staff.
What keeps you coming back? Greg likes to say, “Marcel’s is our country club.” We are always treated like royalty, which is very special. When I was admitted to a nearby hospital, Robert called to check on me and even offered to send me my meals—a true friend!
